We’ve updated Best Management Practices (BMPs) in the City of Seattle Stormwater Manual to more specifically address polychlorinated biphenyls, commonly known as PCBs, and other toxics. The updated BMPs are C1.25, C1.30, and C-1.50. We are making this change to reflect new information that has become available on PCBs in building materials.
BMPs are tools and methods that must be used to control pollutants from construction or other ground disturbing activities so that they do not pollute stormwater. Properly installed and maintained BMPs are the most effective tool for protecting rivers, lakes, and Puget Sound from pollution. BMPs are required by the City of Seattle Stormwater Code and are included in permits issued by SDCI. BMPs are inspected during permit inspections, and failure to properly implement BMPs may require corrections or a stop work order.
PCBs can be found in products such as caulk, paint, sealant, and other building materials that were used from 1940 to 1980. Some materials manufactured after 1980, such as yellow pigments in paints, have been found to contain PCBs that are inadvertently created as a byproduct of the manufacturing process. PCBs are a hazardous material, and best management practices must be used so that PCBs do not become airborne or mix with stormwater.
Disposal of materials with PCBs is regulated by state and federal agencies. Information on PCBs along with state and federal requirements can be found at http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/hwtr/demodebris/pages2/
pcbsummary.html. For more information, contact:
Ecology Northwest Regional Office, Bellevue
(425) 649-7000
EPA Region 10, Seattle
(206) 553-6693